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FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES CERTIFICATION INCOME AND RESOURCES FNS 340 DEDUCTIONS Section 340 Change #02-2026 August 4, 2026 G. Eligibility Requirements for the Telephone Utility Allowance (TUA) 1. The FNS unit is eligible for the TUA if the only utility expense incurred is for a telephone. 2. The telephone can be either a land line or a cellular phone. 3. The household qualifies for the TUA if a prepaid cell phone is the household’s method of basic telephone service. Prepaid long distance service is not considered a basic telephone service. 4. Budget the TUA for the entire CP. NOTE: Fees charged by a utility company for initial installation of service are included in the TUA. H. Allowing the SUA, BUA, or TUA Expenses 1. Explain eligibility for using the SUA, BUA, or TUA expenses at application, reapplication, recertification or change in situation. Accept the client’s statement of the utility expenses and entitlement to the SUA, BUA or TUA, unless questionable. 2. Explain each utility allowance at application, recertification, and reported move by the FNS unit. 3. Document the utility deduction in the case file. I. Verification of the SUA, BUA, or TUA 1. Verify entitlement to the SUA, BUA, or TUA when the client’s statement is questionable. Document the case file as to why the client’s statement is questionable and the reason for requesting verification. 2. Give the FNS unit a DSS-8650 allow the FNS unit at least ten calendar days to provide verification of entitlement to the applicable standard. If needed, offer assistance to the FNS unit in obtaining information. 3. View bills or receipts or obtain a written or verbal statement from the utility company or vendor. NOTE: The landlord can verify utilities are not included in the rent and can verify the primary source. The landlord cannot verify who pays the utility expense. 4. Resolve any discrepancies prior to allowing the deduction. 5. If verification is provided within the CP, allow the deduction. Adjust benefits for the month after verification is provided. J. Documentation of Entitlement to the SUA, BUA, or TUA